GENERATING SETS FOR DATA CENTERS

GENERATING SETS FOR DATA CENTER SECTOR

In an increasingly virtual world where exchange of critical information is getting more and more important, data centers demand an extremely reliable and constant supply of power. They can contain thousands of computer storage devices and they must be always on. Beside that, the data storage devices require specific climate control for ranting operations, including air conditioning and ventilation systems in the facilities in which are housed.

Normally this arrangement is in the form of battery backup and UPS systems, but these are only a short term solution for a few minutes at the most. Emergency backup generators are the most common and useful piece of machinery which can help to generate power for hours until the main supply is back on track. A standby generator is the most viable and affordable option for handling uninterrupted power supply in the event of long outages. When configured properly this electrical backup system operates automatically in the case of a power failure. An automatic transfer switch senses the power loss within seconds of a utility outage, signals the generator to start functioning, and then transfers the electrical load to the generator. The generator then begins to supply power to the circuits. When the utility power supply is resumed, the electrical load is transferred back to the utility by the automatic transfer switch. The standby generator shuts off and moves into a standby mode where it awaits the next outage without interfering with the functioning of the utility power.

How does one go about buying backup generators for a Data Center?

The first step is determining the power-distribution infrastructure that will meet the data center's needs. To accomplish that, it is recommended to: • Understand the raised-floor area, heat load and square area or number of racks to be used as that will help estimate the facility's total power consumption. The result indicates the approximate size of the required power system. • Define how power arrives to the critical loads. • Implement standard power-distribution system architecture, especially when paralleling multiple generators because this will increase reliability and facilitate serviceability.

What to look for in a backup generator

• Power distribution: Tier rating and power requirements will determine the controls on the generator sets. Redundancy and reliability are critical to the control systems that switch generators online or control several generator sets running in parallel. • Remote monitoring and control: controllers allow remote monitoring and control capabilities. Data Center operators can view engine and alternator data, control system status, power-transfer status, power-transfer connection status and load levels.

WHAT ARE THE ONIS VISA GENSET CHARACTERISTICS THAT MAKE THEM IDEAL TO USE IN A DATA CENTER APPLICATION?

GENERATOR SIZING SUPPORT • This is the most important point for a good result. Already in the planning stages, Visa can support the client in sizing the generator based on the loads and redundancy system required. Data Centers have particular loads that may require units be supplied with DCC rating, which Visa is able to do. • The engines are specifically designed for Data Centers and sized in accordance with DCC (Data Centre Continuous Ratings) that comply with the Uptime Institute regulations.

DESIGN PHASE • Design support with drawings and technical documentation • Support in creating the correct installation area • Tailor made genset configuration with all the necessary equipment • Test and certification of the entire Power System within our test facilities. We can also support the client for customized tests on site, providing load banks if necessary

CONTROL AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS • Ability to integrate paralleling control system to guarantee any level of redundancy required by the different Tier certifications • The controllers can include different communication protocols in order to integrate the generator set, its operating parameters and alarms into the building’s management system (BMS). These can also be remotely monitored and controlled allowing operators to have visibility to power system performance from a Web browser.

ADDITIONAL REFUELING TRANSFER AND FILTRATION SYSTEM • Able to monitor and control external refueling systems to guarantee a reliable, and where necessary, redundant, fuel feed. • Filtering fuel to ensure optimal quality for genset operation. Visa SpA has always been committed to providing products that minimize their impact on the environment. To minimize other operational impacts, our gensets are designed to exhibit inherently low noise and low vibrations. With optional advanced sound-attenuated enclosures, even large and high-powered generators can be located near residential areas without effecting the local environment.